Im wondering if its legal to build one of those pipe shotguns? Would the pipe the shell fits into need to be 18 inches or more for it to be legal? What if it shot 38 special or a rimmed rifle round? Would it be illegal because the barrel is not rifled? Im talking about shotguns like this

I mainly wanted to build one of the shotguns for the hell of it, looks like it would be fun! I have considered the black powder kits as well. Im going to be bored over the summer sometimes and it would be nice to be able to build something cool. If I did make the zip gun shotgun would it be legal though? Can I at least get links to the atf's website adressing this? Also in illinois it says shotguns need to be no less than 26'' in overall length and have at least an 18'' barrel so if I got a pipe 36'' long that should be more than enough right?
I am also pissed off because in illinois EVEN MUZZLE LOADERS AND CERTAIN AIRFILES NEED TO BE SHIPPED TO A F****** FFL DEALER! When was the last time someone tried to kill someone with a muzzle loader or air rifle?! :(

SSGN_Doc

05-24-2013 09:50 PM

The situation he describes is in a case where all other legal firearms options are gone.

But by the law, it is not illegal to manufacture your own firearm for personal use as long as it complies with the legal dimensions. Same as the 80% lowers for ARs or receiver flats for AK kits. You can't build into an illegal configuration without breaking the law. You aren't supposed to mass produce them or transfer them, or make them fit resale without a manufacturers liscense.

MisterMcCool

05-24-2013 09:50 PM

A shotgun must be at least 26 inches overall and the barrel must be at least 18 inches.

Smooth bore pistols are "any other weapons."
A rifle must have a barrel of at least 16 inches or it is an "any other weapon."

orangello

05-24-2013 09:53 PM

Law aside, if a LEO sees you with a zip gun, you will be in for some discussions at the least, but with a BP pistol, he would probably just want to try it.